Supporting vulnerable people in our communities has never been more important than it is today, yet in many ways, this need was the motivation for starting a service organisation back in 1921.
Soroptimist International has been assisting local communities around the world for 100 years and continues to do so.
This year marks a centenary of service, and Soroptimist International Bayside members were keen to be involved in the global celebrations.
From humble beginnings in Oakland, California, with the first club opening in October 1921, there are now more than 75 000 volunteers across the globe in 121 countries working to educate, empower and enable women and girls to achieve their potential.
Soroptimists around the world continue to advocate for human rights and the status of women.
The theme for the centenary celebrations is Bright Past, Brilliant Future, and clubs were encouraged to either plant 100 trees or undertake 100 acts of kindness during this year.
SI Bayside met this challenge and provided care packs for Redland Hospital, kindness packs for people in aged care, and donated to local service providers who support those sleeping rough or fleeing domestic and family violence.
In addition, members have provided individual care to others.
This milestone was also acknowledged by the lighting of Brisbane landmarks in Soroptimist colours of blue and yellow on September 30, and Bayside members enjoyed a meal at Opa restaurant in full view of the Story Bridge.
Many joined thousands of members for the online celebrations the following weekend. Streaming from Seattle, Washington, members from different time zones across the world, watched presentations showcasing highly successful Soroptimist projects (past and ongoing) as well as keynote addresses.
Each afternoon, members were able to reflect on the presentations in breakout rooms via Zoom.
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner and his wife Nina hosted a civic reception for 90 members of SI South Queensland in recognition of the organisation's achievements over the past 100 years and encouraged its continued support of local communities in need.
SI Bayside has been volunteering in the Redlands and Wynnum areas since 1983, and continues to make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate through the work of its dynamic members.